A Zimbabwean parliamentary committee has released a report alleging that the municipal councils of Harare and Chitungwiza diverted funds designated for sewer system repairs. The Portfolio Committee on Environment, Climate and Wildlife’s findings were detailed in a report on water pollution, presented as the two local authorities seek US$9.3 million in emergency funding for infrastructure.
The report states that fees collected from residents for wastewater management were moved into general accounts instead of being allocated specifically for the maintenance and repair of sewer infrastructure. According to the committee, this practice contributed to the deterioration of sanitation systems in the two urban areas. The investigation focused on identifying major water pollution hotspots within Harare and Chitungwiza.
Concurrent with the release of the report’s findings, the Harare and Chitungwiza councils have requested US$9.3 million in financial assistance. The stated purpose of the requested funds is for urgent repairs to their wastewater and sanitation networks.
Service delivery, particularly concerning water and sanitation, has been a subject of public reports and resident complaints in Zimbabwe’s major urban centers. Infrastructure challenges, including aging pipes and treatment facilities, have been documented in both Harare and Chitungwiza.
The parliamentary report did not include a formal response from either the Harare City Council or the Chitungwiza Municipality regarding the allegations of fund diversion. The committee’s report has been submitted to Parliament for review. Further actions regarding the findings and the councils’ funding request have not yet been announced.
